| Business Payments |
There are 4 types of card machine for UK businesses: mobile readers, portable terminals, countertop terminals, and smart Android terminals, plus software-only tap-to-pay. Each suits different business situations, with varying hardware costs, connectivity, and features. Choose based on your business type and needs.
UK businesses can choose from four main types of card machine, each with distinct hardware costs, connectivity, and suitability for different business situations.
KEY FACTS
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LAST REVIEWED 2026-09-06
Mobile card readers
Mobile card readers are compact devices that connect to a smartphone or tablet via Bluetooth. They are designed for businesses that need to take payments on the go, such as market stalls, delivery drivers, and tradespeople. These readers are typically the most affordable option, with hardware costs often starting from around £20 to £50, though some providers offer them free with a payment plan.
Connectivity is usually via Bluetooth to a mobile device, which then uses its own internet connection (Wi-Fi or mobile data) to process transactions. Battery life is generally sufficient for a day of use, and receipts are typically sent by email or SMS. Mobile readers are best suited for low to medium transaction volumes and businesses that are always on the move.
Example models include the SumUp Air, iZettle Reader, and Zettle Reader. These devices are easy to set up and use, making them a popular choice for small businesses and sole traders. However, they may not be ideal for high-volume retail environments where speed and stability are critical.
Portable terminals
Portable terminals are handheld devices that combine a card reader, keypad, and printer in one unit. They are often used in restaurants, cafes, and other hospitality settings where staff need to bring the terminal to the customer. These terminals typically connect to Wi-Fi or use a built-in SIM card for mobile data, allowing them to work anywhere within the premises or even outside.
Hardware costs for portable terminals are higher than mobile readers, often ranging from £100 to £300, depending on the model and features. They come with a rechargeable battery that can last for several shifts, and they can print receipts directly, which is useful for customers who prefer paper receipts.
Portable terminals are best for businesses that need to process payments away from a fixed till but still require a robust, all-in-one device. They are suitable for table service, pop-up shops, and events. Example models include the PAX A920 and the Ingenico APOS A8. These devices offer a balance between mobility and functionality, making them a versatile choice for many businesses.
Countertop terminals
Countertop terminals are the traditional card machines found in shops and retail outlets. They are designed to sit on a counter and are connected to a power source and a landline or broadband internet connection. These terminals are typically the most reliable and fastest option for high-volume transactions, as they have a stable connection and can process payments quickly.
Hardware costs for countertop terminals vary widely, from around £100 to £500, depending on the brand and features. They often come with a built-in printer for receipts and may support contactless, chip and PIN, and mobile wallets. Some models also offer additional features such as inventory management or integration with a till system.
Countertop terminals are best suited for fixed retail locations, such as shops, supermarkets, and pharmacies, where customers pay at a till. They are less portable but offer the most robust performance. Example models include the Ingenico Desk/5000 and the Verifone VX 520. For businesses with a permanent premises, a countertop terminal is often the most dependable choice.
Smart Android terminals
Smart Android terminals are advanced card machines that run on the Android operating system, allowing them to support a wide range of apps beyond just payment processing. These terminals combine a touchscreen, card reader, and often a printer, and can be used for inventory management, customer relationship management, and other business applications.
Hardware costs for smart terminals are generally higher, ranging from £200 to £600 or more, depending on the model and capabilities. They connect via Wi-Fi or 4G, and some models have a built-in battery for portability. Receipts can be printed, emailed, or sent via SMS.
Smart terminals are ideal for businesses that want an all-in-one solution to manage payments and other operations. They are commonly used in retail, hospitality, and service industries. Example models include the PAX A920, the Sunmi V2, and the Ingenico APOS A8. These devices offer flexibility and can be customised with apps to suit specific business needs, making them a future-proof investment.
Tap to pay on phone
Tap to pay on phone is a software-only solution that allows a business to accept contactless payments directly on a compatible smartphone or tablet, without the need for a separate card reader. This technology uses the device's built-in NFC (near-field communication) to communicate with contactless cards and mobile wallets.
There is no hardware cost for tap to pay on phone, as it uses existing devices. However, the business must have a compatible device and a payment app from a provider such as SumUp, Zettle, or Stripe. The app typically charges a transaction fee, which is often similar to other card machine fees.
This option is best for very small businesses, freelancers, or occasional sellers who want to accept card payments without investing in hardware. It is also useful as a backup solution. However, it may not be suitable for high-volume transactions, as the process can be slower and less reliable than a dedicated terminal. Receipts are sent by email or SMS. Tap to pay on phone is a convenient and low-cost entry point into card payments.
Connectivity and offline mode
Card machines rely on connectivity to process transactions. The main connectivity options are Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and mobile data (via a SIM card). Wi-Fi is common for countertop and portable terminals, providing a stable connection within a premises. Bluetooth is used by mobile readers to connect to a smartphone, which then uses its own internet connection. Mobile data is available on many portable and smart terminals, allowing them to work anywhere with cellular coverage.
Offline mode is a feature that allows a card machine to process transactions even when there is no internet connection. In offline mode, the terminal stores transaction data and uploads it later when connectivity is restored. This is useful for businesses that operate in areas with poor signal or during temporary outages. However, not all card machines support offline mode, and there may be limitations on transaction amounts and the number of transactions that can be stored.
When choosing a card machine, it is important to consider the connectivity options and whether offline mode is necessary for your business. For example, a market stall in a remote area may need a terminal with mobile data and offline capability, while a shop with reliable Wi-Fi may not. Always check the specifications of the terminal to ensure it meets your needs.
Matching machine to business
Choosing the right card machine depends on the nature of your business, your transaction volume, and your budget. The table below summarises the typical hardware cost range, connectivity, receipt method, and best-fit business for each type of terminal.
| Type | Hardware cost range | Connectivity | Receipt | Typical business | Example models | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mobile reader | £20-£50 | Bluetooth to smartphone | Email/SMS | Market stalls, delivery, trades | SumUp Air, Zettle Reader | Provider data |
| Portable terminal | £100-£300 | Wi-Fi or 4G | Printed, email, SMS | Restaurants, cafes, events | PAX A920, Ingenico APOS A8 | Provider data |
| Countertop terminal | £100-£500 | Wi-Fi or landline | Printed, email, SMS | Retail shops, supermarkets | Ingenico Desk/5000, Verifone VX 520 | Provider data |
| Smart Android terminal | £200-£600 | Wi-Fi or 4G | Printed, email, SMS | Retail, hospitality, services | PAX A920, Sunmi V2 | Provider data |
| Tap to pay on phone | No hardware cost | NFC on smartphone | Email/SMS | Freelancers, occasional sellers | SumUp, Zettle, Stripe apps | Provider data |
Consider your typical transaction value and volume. For low volume, a mobile reader or tap to pay may suffice. For high volume, a countertop or smart terminal offers speed and reliability. Also consider whether you need a printer, battery life, and the ability to work offline. By matching the machine to your business situation, you can ensure efficient payment processing and a good customer experience.
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Disclaimer. This guide is editorial information drawn from primary sources. It is not financial, legal or tax advice and does not recommend any provider. Figures are those published by the named sources on the review date and may change. Kael Tripton Ltd receives no commission, referral fee or lead payment from any provider named on this page. |
Frequently asked questions
Do I need Wi-Fi for a card reader?
Not necessarily. Mobile card readers connect to a smartphone via Bluetooth, and the phone uses its own internet connection (Wi-Fi or mobile data) to process transactions. Portable and smart terminals often have built-in 4G connectivity, so they can work without Wi-Fi. Countertop terminals typically require a wired internet connection or Wi-Fi. If you operate in an area with poor signal, consider a terminal with offline mode.
Can a card machine work offline?
Yes, some card machines have an offline mode that allows them to process transactions without an internet connection. In offline mode, the terminal stores transaction data and uploads it later when connectivity is restored. However, not all machines support this, and there may be limits on transaction amounts and the number of transactions stored. Check the specifications of your chosen terminal to see if offline mode is available.
What is a smart terminal?
A smart terminal is a card machine that runs on the Android operating system, allowing it to support various apps beyond payment processing. It typically has a touchscreen, card reader, and often a printer. Smart terminals can be used for inventory management, customer relationship management, and other business functions. They offer flexibility and can be customised to suit specific business needs, making them a versatile option for many businesses.
Is a mobile reader enough for a shop?
A mobile reader can be used in a shop, but it may not be ideal for high-volume transactions. Mobile readers rely on a smartphone for connectivity and can be slower than countertop terminals. They are best suited for low to medium transaction volumes. For a busy shop, a countertop or smart terminal offers faster processing and more stability. Consider your transaction volume and speed requirements when choosing a device.
Do card machines need a SIM?
Not all card machines need a SIM. Countertop terminals typically use a landline or Wi-Fi connection. Mobile readers use Bluetooth to connect to a smartphone, which uses its own internet connection. Portable and smart terminals often have an option for a built-in SIM card for 4G connectivity, but they can also work on Wi-Fi. If you need to take payments on the go, a terminal with a SIM card may be beneficial.
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